Kevin Kiesler (Fed)

In his professional career Kevin has held positions in molecular biology research and development in both the academic and private sectors. His early career was spent in an academic biochemistry research lab providing technical support in the genetic engineering and purification of electron transfer proteins. Then, at the University of Arizona Genomics Core facility, he operated services for DNA fragment analysis, high-throughput DNA sequencing, mutation detection using DHPLC and qPCR platforms, Affymetrix microarrays, qPCR, and fabrication and use of custom DNA microarrays. In his later career he has held senior positions at two private companies, GMS Biotech and OpGen Incorporated. At GMS Biotech he helped to develop a microarray based genotyping method for Human Leukocyte Antigen genes. At OpGen, he aided in the optimization of a genome physical mapping technology while also playing a crucial role in the deployment of a quality control program for OpGen's manufactured goods.

Kevin's current position as a Research Biologist in the Applied Genetics Group at NIST focuses on assessment of molecular biological methods for human biometrics. His interests in genome sequencing, fragment analysis, mutation detection, and advanced applications of PCR technology compliment the core strengths of the Applied Genetics Group at NIST.

Current projects include:

• Evaluation of next generation sequencing for DNA biometrics using Short Tandem Repeats (STRs), mitochondrial DNA, and Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms (SNPs) (link)
• Clinical Standard Reference Material (SRM) production support via measurements with next generation sequencing and digital PCR
• Evaluation of residual host cell DNA quantitation methodology using quantitative PCR and digital PCR for NIST's Biomanufacturing Initiative